Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 October 2012
238. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Jobs; Enterprise and Innovation if he has made arrangements to ensure that he includes within his official delegation on future trade missions persons who can represent the scientific community here. [40269/12]
View answerThe nature of each trade mission is different depending on the specific sector focus and market being visited. Some missions may include initiatives or the signing of agreements relating to joint venture collaboration with Ireland on a range of activities such as research, innovation, or the provision of education services. Participation on missions is arranged so that the interests of those travelling relates with the individual mission objectives. In a substantial number of trade missions, representatives from the scientific community are represented in the form of Science Foundation Ireland or other research/educational establishments (e.g. SFI is travelling to Brazil for the trade mission in October). Enterprise Ireland notifies all relevant Government Departments and state agencies of upcoming trade missions and always seeks to involve parties relevant to each trade mission based on the specific trade mission market and sector focus. Individual institutions, such as third level colleges and universities, can opt to participate where this would be of benefit to them.
